The Federal Maritime Commission, or FMC, is the independent U.S. government agency that regulates international ocean transportation involving the United States. In shipping and logistics, the FMC oversees ocean common carriers, non-vessel-operating common carriers, ocean transportation intermediaries, service contracts, tariffs, and shipping practices. Its role is to support fair competition, protect shippers from unreasonable practices, and help ensure that U.S. importers and exporters have access to reliable ocean freight services.
The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) is the independent U.S. agency that regulates international ocean shipping to and from the United States. It enforces the Shipping Act, licenses NVOCCs and freight forwarders, and investigates unfair practices.
Key FMC Functions
- Licensing and bonding of NVOCCs and ocean freight intermediaries
- Reviewing tariffs and service contracts filed by ocean carriers
- Investigating allegations of unreasonable practices or rate manipulation
- Administering the Shipping Act of 1984 as amended by the Ocean Shipping Reform Act
NVOCCs operating in U.S. trades must hold an FMC license and maintain a surety bond. Operating without a license violates the Shipping Act.
For related logistics context, see glossary entries on NVOCC, Common Carrier, Freight Forwarding, and FCL.
